Flintlock Muzzleloaders in Canada

[NaturalPath]

Thanks for the very informative reply hollywood. I have now purchased a Lyman Deerstalker which is virtually brand new, never been fired. So far, I think that this gun is fantastic for me. I have not fired it yet, since I do need to collect other supplies as I go. It probably won't be until next year before I do get it out for a trial run. I like to do tons of research, before I get into something that I've never done before, so, hearing of your experiences is very helpful. I find it interesting that you choose to use a wad between the powder charge and the patched ball. I would think that the patch on the ball would kind of serve this purpose. I'd like to hear more about your reasoning on this method.
I've been reading so much info on different ways of cleaning these guns, and I haven't really settled on any particular process that I might use. There does seem to be a heavy leaning towards the soap and water method that you use though. This appears to be the 'traditional' way of cleaning black powder guns. However, I'm not really a stickler for tradition, so to speak. I will usually weigh the options and go with what is both easy for me, and makes the most sense to me. The time that it takes to clean the gun is a non-issue for me, since I am retired, and I have no place to be, except in the bush, of course. :-)
Yes, I've already decided that I will be using real black powder, and not the newer alternatives. I've looked at all the specs and it just makes sense to use the powder that has the lowest temperature combustion in these flintlock rifles. Again, there are many different opinions on which grade of powder to use. Most will agree that 4F in the pan is the way to go, and there are varying opinions on whether to use 2F or 3F for the main charge. I guess I will determine what works best for me, and my gun, when I get some experience in the field.
I haven't even fired this gun yet, and I'm already addicted. I spend so much time now researching anything to do with muzzleloaders, or hunting with muzzleloaders. I will probably do so all winter now, while I'm pulling together all the necessary pieces that I will need. Since I live in Elliot Lake, ON, I don't have a store that I can just pop into and purchase these things. I have to find sources online and that means dealing with shipping costs too.
Again, thanks for your input, it's much appreciated.